1996 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2012 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Pontiac Firebird (200 HP) has 96 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen T5. (104 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen T5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 768 kg more than 1996 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 1996 Pontiac Firebird is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1996 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen T5, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1996 Pontiac Firebird (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen T5. (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1996 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen T5.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Pontiac Firebird | 2012 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
| Model | Firebird | T5 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3790 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 104 HP |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1502 kg | 2270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 5300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1970 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 3410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 80 L |
